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During a latest visit to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the already strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to address international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Agreements

Both nations announced a list of joint initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are seen as potentially easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Japan to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to accelerate plans to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but would not use a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in various states are planning redistricting in reaction to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

The meeting highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy areas.